Definition
What is PRF?
PRF stands for Platelet-Rich Fibrin. It is an autologous platelet concentrate obtained from the patient’s own blood. Unlike many PRP procedures, PRF is usually prepared without anticoagulant. This allows natural coagulation to begin and a fibrin-rich matrix may form.
This matrix may contain platelets, leukocytes and various signaling substances. Scientific literature describes that certain PRF matrices can release growth factors over several days. The exact composition depends on the protocol, centrifuge, rotor, runtime and tube used.
Important noteThis category provides information about products for PRF preparation. It does not replace medical advice, indication setting or treatment instructions.
Comparison
Why PRF instead of PRP?
PRF and PRP are both based on the patient’s own blood components. The main difference lies in preparation and in the consistency of the preparation obtained.
PRP
PRP is usually liquid and is often prepared with anticoagulant.
- liquid plasma
- often with anticoagulant
- composition depends on protocol and system
PRF
PRF is prepared without anticoagulant and can form a fibrin matrix through natural coagulation.
- fibrin-rich matrix possible
- without anticoagulant
- depending on protocol: gel, membrane or more liquid PRF variant
This does not mean automatic treatment success. Which method is appropriate depends on indication, target tissue, treatment goal and medical assessment.
Products
PRF/PRP glass tubes without anticoagulant and separation gel
PRF preparation requires tubes that do not inhibit natural coagulation through anticoagulants. Glass tubes without separation gel and without additives can be used for different PRF protocols, provided the protocol and centrifuge are suitable.
Density PRF/PRP glass tubes
These tubes are intended for professional users who carry out PRF or PRP sample preparation in a professional setting.
- without anticoagulant
- without separation gel
- suitable for different PRF protocols
- intended for practices, clinics and laboratories
View product
Note: suitability depends on the selected protocol, centrifuge, rotor and desired PRF fraction.
Quality
Material quality, hygiene and documentation
Material quality, hygienic handling and reproducible processing play an important role in PRF preparation. Professional users should therefore pay attention to suitable tubes, clear workflows and the respective product documentation.
If CE marking, MDR conformity or other conformity documents are available for individual products, they should be checked on a product-specific basis. Broad claims such as “full liability security” or “guaranteed clinical success” should be avoided.
Product documentationCheck conformity documents and instructions for use on a product-specific basis.
HygieneSterile and clean working methods are crucial for every blood sample preparation.
ReproducibilityRCF, runtime and rotor conditions should be clearly defined.
Centrifuges and accessories for PRF protocols
In addition to suitable tubes, the centrifuge is decisive. Many PRF protocols use defined RCF values, runtimes and rotor conditions. Therefore, RPM alone is not enough; the rotor radius and resulting relative centrifugal force must also be considered.
Centrifuges, tube racks and other laboratory accessories support an orderly workflow. Whether a device is suitable for a specific PRF protocol should be checked using the technical data.
Fields
Possible fields of use for PRF
PRF is used or scientifically investigated in several medical fields. The level of evidence differs depending on the indication. Treatment decisions should therefore always be made by qualified professionals after individual indication setting.
Dentistry & implantologyPRF is frequently discussed in this field in relation to wound healing and tissue management.
Aesthetic medicinePRF is investigated in contexts such as skin quality and biostimulation.
Hair treatmentAutologous blood concentrates are scientifically investigated for certain forms of hair loss.
Wound carePRF is researched in relation to regenerative processes and wound management.
OrthopaedicsIn orthopaedic questions, the use of autologous concentrates is assessed depending on the indication.
Practice & laboratoryProtocol adherence, hygiene and proper handling remain decisive.
PRF preparation workflow
The exact workflow depends on the protocol and system used. In general, PRF preparation usually follows these steps:
1
Blood collection
Venous blood is collected into suitable tubes without anticoagulant.
2
Centrifugation
The sample is centrifuged according to the intended PRF protocol. RCF, runtime and rotor are decisive.
3
Fibrin matrix
Natural coagulation can create a fibrin-rich fraction.
4
Collection and processing
The desired PRF fraction is collected and processed according to the protocol.
5
Professional application
Application is indication-specific and performed by qualified professionals.
Balanced view
Benefits and limitations in plain terms
Possible benefits
- autologous starting material
- preparation without anticoagulant
- fibrin matrix as possible carrier structure
- different protocols and PRF variants possible
Limitations
- no automatic treatment success
- strongly dependent on protocol and user
- evidence differs by indication
- medical decision remains a professional task
FAQ
Frequently asked questions about PRF
What is PRF?
PRF stands for Platelet-Rich Fibrin. It is an autologous platelet concentrate obtained from the patient’s own blood, prepared without anticoagulant and able to form a fibrin matrix.
What is the difference between PRF and PRP?
PRP is usually liquid and often prepared with anticoagulant. PRF is obtained without anticoagulant and can form a fibrin matrix through natural coagulation.
Which tubes are used for PRF?
PRF requires tubes without anticoagulant. Depending on the protocol, glass tubes without separation gel and without additives may be used.
Is PRF better than PRP?
Not as a general rule. PRF and PRP are different procedures with different properties. The appropriate method depends on indication, target tissue, protocol and medical assessment.
What should professional users pay attention to?
Important points include suitable tubes, a compatible centrifuge, correctly calculated RCF values, hygienic handling and a clear protocol.
